South Bristol Fire Chief Robert “Mitch” Mitchell told the South Bristol Board of Selectmen that the pump on one of the department’s fire trucks “failed miserably” during a routine test.
Mitchell estimated the cost of repairing the pump at $60,000-$80,000. The truck also needs a new tank and rebuilt brakes, at $10,000-$15,000 and $10,000, respectively, as well as repairs to its electrical system.
Mitchell cited age as the culprit behind the 1986 Class A pumper’s demise. “We were lucky to get 20 years out of it, let alone 25,” he said.
Although the pump still operates, it does so poorly and could put firefighters in danger, Mitchell said. “If we’re in a structure fire and that pump dies, I’m not going to risk anyone’s life for that.”
Selectmen were hesitant to commit to the purchase of a new truck. “I think, with mutual aid, we could get by until we get our reserve built up again,” Chester Rice said.
Selectmen and Mitchell also discussed the possibility of purchasing a used truck and/or seeking grants for another truck. “Some cities are getting some pretty good fire trucks for little or near nothing,” Rice said.
“I just want to do the best job I can do to protect the community,” Mitchell said.
For now, the department still has two pumpers. The larger truck, a 2002 Class A E-One pumper, will stay on Rutherford Island – a necessity in case the decaying swing bridge gets stuck open. A 2005 E-One Lynx mini-pumper will be available at the Walpole station.